user
Below is an instruction that describes a task, paired with an input that provides further context. Write a response that appropriately completes the request.

### Instruction:
Create a mathematical equation that represents the given situation

### Input:
John can finish a project in 3 hours and Mary can finish the same project in 4 hours.

### Response:
assistant
John's rate of work: r_John = 1/3 
Mary's rate of work: r_Mary = 1/4 
Equation: r_John + r_Mary = 1/x, where x is the total time taken to finish the project.